Simon Jordan, a British entrepreneur, media personality, and former football club owner, has built an impressive fortune estimated at $100 million. His success spans multiple industries, including mobile phones, football, property development, and media.
Known for his bold business decisions and outspoken nature, Jordan has left a significant mark in the business and sports world.
Early Life and Background
Born on September 24, 1967, in Thornton Heath, South London, Simon Jordan grew up in a working-class family.
He attended Purley High School for Boys before leaving formal education at the age of 16. From a young age, he had a strong drive for success, which led him to enter the business world through sales.
His early experiences in mobile phone sales and the automotive sector paved the way for his entrepreneurial career.
Rise in the Mobile Phone Industry
Jordan’s business journey began in the mobile phone retail sector, where he quickly became one of the UK’s top salesmen. Recognizing the growing demand for mobile phones, he co-founded Pocket Phone Shop in 1987 alongside Andrew Briggs.
Simon Jordan (Credit: YouTube)
The company started with an initial investment of £30,000 and grew into one of the largest independent mobile phone retailers in the UK.
Over the years, Pocket Phone Shop expanded to more than 150 stores, serving a vast customer base. In 2000, Jordan sold the company to One2One (which later became T-Mobile) for an impressive £73 million, personally pocketing around £36.5 million.
This major financial breakthrough provided the foundation for his future ventures.
Owning Crystal Palace Football Club
In 2000, at the age of 32, Simon Jordan made headlines by acquiring Crystal Palace Football Club for £10 million.
Under his leadership, Crystal Palace enjoyed some successes, including a promotion to the Premier League in 2004. However, the club faced financial difficulties, and in 2010, Jordan stepped down as chairman.
The club eventually entered administration, and he lost his ownership stake. Despite this, his involvement in football solidified his reputation as an ambitious and bold investor.
Business Ventures Beyond Football
Simon Jordan didn’t stop at football; he explored multiple industries, further diversifying his wealth.
Sports Marketing & Media
Jordan established a sports marketing agency, which later caught the attention of advertising giant WPP. In 2005, WPP acquired the agency, further boosting Jordan’s fortune.
His media presence also grew, and he became a regular commentator on football. His bold opinions and unfiltered commentary made him a controversial yet respected voice in sports media.
Property Development
Leveraging his financial success, Jordan invested in real estate, further strengthening his financial portfolio.
His ventures in property development allowed him to generate substantial wealth beyond his football and media engagements.
Automotive Industry
Before his success in mobile phones, Jordan worked as a car salesman. His understanding of the automotive market led him to make strategic investments, increasing his fortune over the years.
Publishing and Restaurants
- In 2002, Jordan co-founded Octane, a high-end car magazine. He later sold his 50% stake in 2006, profiting from the venture.
- In 2006, he opened Club Bar and Dining, a high-end restaurant in London. However, he sold it in 2010 to the Ottolenghi Group, which later rebranded it as Nopi.
Career and Public Image
Following his business ventures, Simon Jordan transitioned into media and broadcasting. He became a radio and TV commentator, regularly discussing football, business, and current affairs.
His candid opinions and outspoken personality made him a popular yet polarizing figure in British media.
Jordan has also made guest appearances on various TV shows, offering insights on entrepreneurship and football management.
His media career has kept him in the public eye, further contributing to his wealth and influence.
Less than a month after filing for divorce, Real Housewives of Atlanta alum Cynthia Bailey has revealed the reason behind her separation from Mike Hill. In a candid conversation on the Two T’s In A Pod podcast, Bailey explained that the marriage was losing its foundation of friendship, ultimately leading to their decision to part ways.
Lack of Friendship Led to the Breakup
During her appearance on the podcast, Bailey, 55, emphasized that their marriage was shifting away from friendship, which she believes is essential in any long-term relationship.
“I felt like we weren’t friends anymore,” she admitted. “I felt like it was just going toward we’re just not going to be friends if we didn’t pump the brakes. This is not my first rodeo. I think friendship just has to be there in a marriage. Like, love is great, but friendship has to be there. I truly want to be with my best friend.”
Cynthia Bailey has revealed the reason behind her separation from Mike Hill (Credit: YouTube)
Bailey’s statement suggests that, despite love being present, the couple struggled with maintaining a strong bond, which eventually made them reconsider their future together.
The Divorce Is Still in Process
Although Bailey has publicly announced their split, she acknowledged that their divorce has not been finalized. She admitted that the process is still ongoing and that she continues to hold a level of respect for Hill as her husband.
“I don’t think either one of us regret our decision to move forward in the way we have decided to move forward,” she said. “It’s not final yet. We’re still going through the process, so we’re still technically married. For me, there’s still just a lot of respect stuff on my end that I still feel like he’s my husband.”
Despite the difficulties, Bailey expressed that the separation was a mutual decision and not something either of them regrets.
Remaining on Good Terms Amid “Weird” Feelings
Even though the split has been challenging, Bailey confirmed that she and Hill are still on good terms. However, she admitted that navigating their new dynamic has been “weird.”
This amicable approach aligns with Bailey’s initial statement when she announced the split. She expressed gratitude for the time they spent together and maintained a positive outlook for the future.
“God does not make mistakes! I truly believe in my heart Mike coming into my life was destiny. I jumped in, both feet first, and gave it my all. Although that journey has come to an end, I am so grateful for our continued friendship and the beautiful memories that we made together.”
Cynthia Bailey and Mike Hill (Credit: YouTube)
Bailey also expressed hope for her romantic future, stating:
“God willing, I will find love again. Whatever is destined to be, will be; and I could not be more excited for my next chapter!”
Potential Return to Real Housewives of Atlanta
Alongside her personal revelations, Bailey recently teased a potential return to RHOA during an appearance on Sherri with Sherri Shepherd. Although she hasn’t confirmed anything, her involvement in the reality TV world remains a topic of speculation among fans.
